Media & Community Response

By providing accurate coverage of intimate partner homicides and avoiding sources, questions and language that perpetuate myths, the media can play an important role in helping the community understand “how domestic violence can go unchecked to the point of murder” (Starr, 2008, p. 1). Because the public gets the majority of its information about the world from the media, it is crucial that advocates work with the media to reach their goal of educating the public about domestic violence (Cuscino & Shea, 1999).

This guide aims to help reporters, copywriters, headline writers, and editors understand the distinction between choking – an accidental internal obstruction of the airway, and strangulation – a tactic of control and abuse.

This media guide includes considerations and guidance for anyone setting out to interview survivors. The tips are organized into stages of preparation for the interview, during the interview, after the interview and special attention is given to ensuring the safety and security of interviewees.

PCADV developed this toolkit to help domestic violence programs navigate a crisis situation – a homicide, suicide, natural death, accident or fire – that could disrupt services, distress staff and shelter residents, and attract unwanted media and public interest.

This second installment of the Action for Social Change manual intends to generate critical thinking and enhance dialogue regarding community organizing and partnerships, communications and engaging the media.

Provides tips, tools and exercises to guide the development of a Community Action Team in your neighborhood, city, faith-based group, school or place of employment. Designed primarily for use by domestic violence and public health organizations.